New Old Heads Podcast

Episode 508 features the New Old Heads diving deep into the massive Killer Mike and FD Signifier discourse. The panel unpacks Mike's recent Red Bull freestyle and Vic Mensa interview, debating whether moving like a capitalist is a valid survival strategy for black neighborhoods or a detriment to systemic change. We break down the clash between digital ideology and boots-on-the-ground activism, asking if video essays carry the same weight as community organizing. Finally, the crew completely roasts the racist Steam game "Hood Warfare 2," exposing the morbid reality of late-stage rapsploitation and digital blackface.

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On this episode we talked about if 50 Cent rapping about gangster toughness or deep-seated fear, if gangster rap just conservatism disguised as street music, if the death of monoculture completely destroyed hip-hop's shared conversation, and more. Get the full two-hour show by becoming a $5 member on either Patreon or YouTube.

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On this episode we talked about Reason saying Sampling Hip Hop should have an automatic clearance, Too Short apologizing for saying he'd go to a Diddy party when he gets out, Bomani Jones having questionable take about Babyface, and more.

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Episode 505 features the New Old Heads discussing Charlamagne Tha God's recent criticism of Rick Rubin interviewing Jay-Z for his new HBO docuseries. The panel debates if Rick Rubin was the right person to unpack Jay-Z's legacy, or if the music mogul purposefully selected an interviewer who wouldn't ask challenging questions. The crew explores how their core Hip Hop principles have evolved over the decades, shifting from protecting the underground subculture to accepting Hip Hop as a massive global entity. Finally, we break down Kendrick Lamar shattering the record for the highest-grossing rap tour in history, debating if true Hip...

 Episode 504 features the New Old Heads reacting to Colin Kaepernick officially responding to Jay-Z's recent concert freestyle. The panel exposes the reality behind Roc Nation's performative NFL deal and breaks down how Jay-Z hijacked the protest movement for corporate gain. We discuss OutKast's holding company suing underground producer Ovrkast for trademark infringement, debating the necessity of legacy acts protecting their merchandise revenue. Finally, the crew breaks down the explosive podcast feud between Aries Spears and DJ Vlad, exposing the morbid reality of Hip Hop media platforms monetizing beef and dead artists for clicks. 

Episode 503 features the New Old Heads unpacking Macklemore getting booted from Ed Sheeran's stadium tour after Robert Kraft issued a strict ultimatum over the rapper's pro-Palestinian stance. The panel reacts to Rockwilder stating there is absolutely no difference between a producer and a beatmaker, debating if liner notes even matter in the WeTransfer era. Jay Moore compares Drake's massive streaming success to McDonald's, explaining why billions served still equates to mystery meat. We also draft our ultimate dream producer and artist collaborations for the modern era. 

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Episode 502 features the New Old Heads discussing J Cole thanking God that Jay-Z and Roc Nation didn't rush his stardom when he was 24. The panel debates if modern labels even develop artists anymore and whether career longevity requires living a grounded life. We react to KRS-One proposing "Little Hip Hop" districts in major cities, debating if the idea will just lead to gentrification and displacement. The crew breaks down DJ Akademiks blasting Peter Rosenberg over Kanye West forgiveness, exploring where the line should be drawn between personal relationships and public accountability. Finally, we roast Fat Joe for claiming he...

Episode 501 features the New Old Heads reviewing the highly anticipated collaborative album from Erykah Badu and The Alchemist. We discuss Alchemist's organic studio process and debate if the stripped-down beats swallowed Badu's signature soul. The panel reacts to Keefe D officially being found guilty in the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur, discussing why chasing internet clout led to his ultimate downfall. We debate if Kendrick Lamar winning the BMI Songwriter of the Year award for his "GNX" records proves his music is meaningful or just incredibly popular. Finally, the crew breaks down Mary J. Blige completely selling out for Suno...

We celebrated episode 500 by recording a live show in front of an audience at Indy CD & Vinyl's The 808 venue. We talked about 500 episodes and then had guests come up and ask us questions.

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Episode 499 features the New Old Heads (with guest Brotha2daKnight) breaking down Lecrae's recent comments demanding that artists focus on quality rather than operating as full-time content creators chasing viral moments. We react to Rapsody calling out the Hip Hop industry for giving platforms like Vlad and No Jumper access to the culture's stories. The panel exposes the reality behind Timbaland's $100K Orbiiit contest, debating if it is just a disguised data harvest for AI. Finally, we analyze Pitchfork giving Tyga's AI-generated "Starface" album a brutal 0.0 rating as a definitive stand against soulless generative music.

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Episode 498 features the New Old Heads breaking down the truth behind Kendrick Lamar cutting off The Game, exposing how the 100 video shoot in Compton and the genius timing of "6:16 In LA" proved Kendrick was always 10 steps ahead. We also react to Drake warning his rivals that his "pen isn't dry," debating if his constant need for validation prevents him from establishing a fresh chapter. Finally, we analyze the absolute best argument against AI in Hip Hop, discussing why prompting a computer makes you a project manager, not a creative. 

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On episode 497 we talked about 9th wonder's statement on Sway saying we should give the youth some grace about learning about older music, a discussion on T-Pain talking about selling his catalogue that turned into a talk on legacy, and Sylvan Lacue talking about him rejecting a Roc Nation deal and if Jay is more business minded than culture minded. That and more.

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Episode 496 features the New Old Heads (along with guest Brotha2daKnight) breaking down the internet beef between Memphis Bleek and Uncle Murda. We debate why older artists are trading their Hip Hop legacy for digital clout. We also discuss Big Daddy Kane demanding relentless originality from modern artists, unpacking why Tyler, The Creator and Kendrick Lamar represent the ultimate blueprint for longevity. Finally, we tackle the corporate push for AI in Hip Hop production and how generative tech threatens the future of real musicians.

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On episode 495 we talked iShowSpeed performing at the World Cup closing ceremonies, Hip Hop sampling and if its appeal has changed, Post Malone potentially making a fusion rap/Hip Hop comeback, and more.

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Episode 494 features the New Old Heads breaking down Jay-Z's historic three-night anniversary residency at Yankee Stadium. We discuss his flawless execution of Reasonable Doubt and The Blueprint, and debate if the success of the concert proves that older Hip Hop legends can still draw massive stadium crowds. We also address DJ Funk Flex comparing Jay-Z's weekend to Kanye West's massive sold-out show in Albania, asking if cancel culture even exists anymore. Finally, we tackle Jay-Z's controversial freestyle subbing Colin Kaepernick, questioning if the billionaire is simply out of touch with the very criticism he is trying to defend against.<...

Episode 493 features guest Brotha2daKnight joining the New Old Heads to debate American sociologist Tricia Rose's recent claim that hip hop now does more harm than good. We unpack whether the culture is truly toxic or if corporate capitalism is to blame for the aesthetics pushed to the forefront. We also discuss independent rapper Prof getting disqualified by Billboard after selling 30,000 physical albums and debate if the charts are rigged for major labels. Later, we react to a viral clip suggesting the NBA is actively trying to phase out hip hop-centric players to enforce corporate discipline, and we break...

Episode 492 features guest Brotha2daKnight joining the crew to tackle Lupe Fiasco's ongoing criticism of Kendrick Lamar, debating whether hip hop history ultimately values the master artist over the master lyricist. We unpack the growing divide between internet commentators and actual creators, questioning if metrics are now being mistaken for real cultural expertise. We also break down Twista's recent tax issues, exploring whether the industry's aesthetic pressure to maintain an illusion of immense luxury leads to bad business and financial negligence. Finally, we debate Lauryn Hill's BET Living Legend Icon Award, her limited solo catalog, and the controversy surrounding...

On this episode we talked about Open Mike Eagle's take on the Atlantic article and AI Watchdog whistleblower-esque reveal on AI theft in music, Boots Riley talking radicalism in music, art and life with Hasan Piker, and more. Extended discussions are available via our Patreon or YouTube members.

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Episode 490 features guest Brotha2daKnight. The crew debates Soulja Boy’s controversial new move to open up a "Rapper University," questioning if it's a blatant cash grab or a legitimate educational platform for aspiring artists in the streaming era. We also unpack the intense backlash Jay-Z is facing for releasing the 30th-anniversary white vinyl of Reasonable Doubt exclusively at Target, exploring the realities of capitalism, boycotts, and selective outrage. Finally, we break down Lord Jamar's appearance on a Hip Hop-style Jubilee, analyzing his four major claims about Hip Hop: the shift from community to corporations, the death of MC ta...

On episode 489 we talked about The Knicks and Donald Trump, Fat Joe comparing the Knicks' NBA Finals Run To 9/11, ReedMySole saying our culture's timeline is a mess, Jay Electronica not showing up to his tour dates, Future saying Jay-Z was a non factor in 1996, and more.

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This week we had a few different discussions on Jay-Z's Roots Picnic freestyle, Dame Dash's response, Talib Kweli calling out Tiny Desk, Conway The Machine airing out Griselda, andd more.

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This week, we catch up on Memorial Day weekend travels before diving deep into how record labels are hijacking political playbooks to manufacture virality through a paid "clipping economy." We also discuss DJ Akademiks officially entering Drake's inner circle with an OVO chain, what that means for the integrity of hip-hop journalism, and Drake's reported Grammy boycott for his latest project, Iceman. Plus more on our Uncut episode exclusively for our Patreon and YouTube Members, we share some Indy 500 experiences and pay tribute to Hip Hop legend Rob Base.

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Episode 486 is the Iceman episode. Discussion on if he lived up to the hype, if he grew at all, what we thought about the three project drop, if this means Kendrick will reply, and more. We also talked about Black Milk and the hard path indie artists have to compete in the algorithmic world of the attention economy. 

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Episode 484 of the New Old Head had discussions on Jermaine Dupri defending himself for keeping publishing on Kriss Kross records, Akademiks being #1 on Hip Hop media list, the Best Hip Hop producer every year since 1979, and more.

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Episode 484 features guest Brotha2daKnight. Discussions dive into Kid Cudi's decision to fire M.I.A. from his upcoming tour lineup. The episode also unpacks whether the Nike brand is truly still for the culture, Dame Dash continuing to disparage Jay-Z's name and music, and Killer Mike getting dragged online for not being supportive enough of Kamala Harris.

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Episode 483 dives into whether New York hip hop bias is actually real or just a myth, exploring how regional sounds like the Midwest and South were heavily judged by East Coast purists. The crew also reviews the new Michael Jackson biopic, debating if it's a cinematic masterpiece that captures his legendary career or just a sanitized cash grab avoiding the heavier controversies. Finally, they unpack the messy situation with super producer Hit-Boy being tricked and sued over a royalty-free sample pack, leading to a deep dive into beat theft and intellectual property in the music industry.

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Episode 482 features guest Brotha2daKnight. Discussions dive into Boosie Badazz disrespecting Indianapolis, refusing to apologize, and getting his shows canceled by local promoters. The episode also unpacks Drake gearing up to release his new "Iceman" project and whether fans will judge him critically after the Kendrick Lamar battle. Finally, we debate the ethics of Jay-Z allegedly stealing songs and concepts from Roc-A-Fella artists without giving them credit, and takes a deep dive into remembering the best underground artists from the mixtape blog era.

An extra, uncut hour is available in video format for all $5 monthly members on...

Episode 481 dives into the death of Afrika Bambaataa and the highly polarizing, divided responses from the hip hop community regarding his dark legacy and the lack of accountability. The episode also unpacks the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducting the Wu-Tang Clan while completely snubbing New Edition despite their massive fan vote. Finally, the panel reviews the mixed reactions coming out of Coachella, including Justin Bieber's controversial laptop set and the crowd's lame energy during The Clipse's performance.

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This week we had discussions on Jay Electronica preaching to concert goers and only rapping acapellas at a Currensy show, Kanye being banned from the UK and his two day London festival being cancelled, the AKAs not knowing nann about Trick Daddy, Pooh Shiesty and Gucci Mane, and more.

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This week we had discussions on JAY-Z and bloated concert ticket prices, J. Cole's statements about not being the best rapper, Benny The Butchers comments about social media being toxic, if there's any redemption for Kanye, positive things in Hip Hop and more.

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Episode 478 features guest Brotha2daKnight. Discussions dive deep into J. Cole's recent interview with Cam'ron, exploring his reflections on the Drake and Kendrick Lamar fallout and his refusal to engage in rap's traditional blood-sport. The episode also unpacks The Kid Mero's fiery response to DJ Akademiks calling him a DEI hire, analyzing the deep rift between cultural preservation and exploitative media. Finally, the panel breaks down Jay-Z's GQ interview where he stated "battling isn't hip hop" and shared his thoughts on morality and billionaire status ahead of his 30th-anniversary Yankee Stadium concert.

The uncut episode has an...

Episode 477 with guest Brotha2daKnight. This week we had discussion on Jack Harlow's new MONICA project and the responses both culturally and musically, LARUSSELL's odd song mentioning Trump, Adolf and Epstein being heaven sent, OLD RAPPERS doing YOUNG RAPPER things, and much more.

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Episode 476 featured Brotha2daKnight and had discussions on Killer Mike's comments around the Atlanta Hawks and Magic City, LaRussell's album getting blocked from Billboard for being independent, Cyhi The Prynce's new record that reveals GOOD music info never known before, 50's new diss records (Patreon only), and more. 

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Episode 475 of the New Old Heads had discussions on the situation with the US bombing and escalating the conflict/war in Iran - and if now is the most divisive time we've witnessed in our lives (Patreon exclusive), Spotify's listing of the "next up" in Hip Hop being the wrong messenger, Nipsey Hussle's Marathon, Lil Yachty being disrespectful towards Hip Hop's elders again, Nipsey Hussle's new music reaction, and much more.

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Episode 474 of the New Old Heads features guest Brotha2daKnight and had discussions on the latest from the 50 Cent and TI beef, Baby Keem's new Casino album and if he's left Kendrick's shadow, if Larry June has reached his ceiling, if The Alchemist is oversaturated, a full react to the new On The Radar cypher, and more. 

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Episode 473 features guest Andy Skinner of Indy CD & Vinyl. Discussions analyze LaRussell's internal conflict regarding Lil Wayne's legacy and the negative impact of music that mirrors community downfall. The episode also critiques DJ Vlad's controversial "joke" about Roc Nation bribing him to frame Tory Lanez, debating when trolling crosses into exploitation.

Episode 473 of the New Old Heads podcast, a hip hop talk show, was recorded on 2/17/26. The edited one-hour episode was released on YouTube and all podcast apps on 2/21/26. If you want to watch the full, uncut show, which features a deep dive ranking the Top 12 Music...

Episode 472 of the New Old Heads featured guest Brotha2daKnight and had discussions on J. Cole's new The Fall Off album, Bad Bunny's halftime show, Kid Rock's commentary around Jay-Z being a DEI hire, music reactions, and more.

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Episode 471 of the New Old Heads with guest Brotha2daKnight had discussions on J. Cole's Birthday Blizzard mixtape, Kendrick surpassing Jay-Z's 25 Grammys and his legacy, a discussion on artists and responsibilities related to speaking out in relation to Killer Mike and Jelly Roll's comments at the Grammys, Pharrell not mentioning Chad in his Grammy speech, Nicki Minaj's continued crashout, and more.

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Episode 470 featuring guest Brotha2daKnight.

Discussions this week were on J. Cole's new "Disc 2, Track 2" single before his upcoming The Fall Off drops in February, Ludacris dropping off a MAGA-adjacent concert because of backlash, Nicki Minaj furthering her grift as the loser she is, ASAP Rocky telling Akademiks he needs to discover more music, and more.

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Featuring guest DJ Spoolz.

On episode 469 we had discussions on The Kid Mero being Hot 97's new leading man, Teddy Riley making a bold statement supporting R Kelly, Vallejo Rapper LaRussell being the path all artists should follow, a dive on ReedMySole's "My Ghetto Is Not Your Culture" video, politics as usual and more.

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